Davido Says Father Insisted on DNA Test Over Paternity Claim

January 19, 2026

Nigerian music superstar David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has revealed that his father compelled him to undergo multiple DNA tests following claims by a young girl who alleged she was his first daughter.

The award-winning Afrobeats singer made the disclosure while addressing public speculation surrounding the paternity controversy, stating that the Adeleke family takes blood relations extremely seriously.

According to Davido, the decision to conduct DNA tests was not merely his own, but was strongly enforced by his father, billionaire businessman Dr. Adedeji Adeleke.

“We don’t play about blood,” the singer said, emphasizing the family’s firm stance on issues involving lineage and identity.

The controversy began when a teenage girl identified as Anu Adeleke surfaced online, pleading with Davido to submit himself for a DNA test. She claimed her mother had consistently maintained that the singer was her biological father.

The claims quickly gained attention across social media platforms, sparking intense debate among fans and the general public. Many called for a DNA test to establish the truth, while others urged caution against spreading unverified allegations.

In response, Davido confirmed that not one, but five separate DNA tests had already been conducted — all of which reportedly returned negative results.

“So far, five DNA tests have been done and they all came out negative,” the singer stated.

He added that his father personally ensured the process was thorough and transparent.

“You guys don’t know my father,” Davido said. “He’s even the one that forced me to go.”

The singer explained that his family’s reputation, values and legacy made it necessary to approach the matter decisively.

“Adeleke’s — we don’t play about blood on this side,” he added.

Davido, who is one of Africa’s most successful musical exports, has often spoken openly about the influence of his family on his life and career. Despite his global fame, the singer has consistently acknowledged his father’s authority and discipline.

The Adeleke family, known both for business and politics in Nigeria’s Osun State, has long emphasized family structure, accountability and responsibility.

Sources close to the family say the DNA testing was conducted under professional medical supervision to avoid doubts or manipulation, given the sensitive nature of the allegation.

The singer’s comments appear to be an effort to finally put the issue to rest after months of online speculation.

Davido is already a father to several children, including his son Ifeanyi, whose tragic death in 2022 deeply affected the singer and drew sympathy from fans worldwide. Since then, issues surrounding his family life have attracted heightened public attention.

Observers say the paternity claim resurfaced at a time when Davido was rebuilding emotionally and professionally, following personal losses and his return to music with renewed focus.

While the singer did not disclose the identities of the medical institutions involved, he maintained that the results were definitive.

Despite the negative test outcomes, the controversy continued to trend online, fueled by social media commentary, leaked messages and emotional appeals from the girl’s representatives.

Legal analysts note that DNA results remain the most reliable form of biological proof, and once conducted by accredited institutions, they are difficult to dispute without credible counter-evidence.

Davido’s decision to speak publicly has been welcomed by many fans who believe the matter should now be laid to rest.

Supporters praised the singer for addressing the issue directly rather than allowing speculation to persist.

“This is a sensitive issue, and he handled it with maturity,” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “If five tests say negative, then that should be respected.”

Others emphasized the emotional impact such claims can have on families, particularly children, and urged the public to show empathy while respecting facts.

The singer’s statement has also sparked broader conversations about paternity fraud, celebrity privacy and the pressure faced by public figures when confronted with personal allegations.

In Nigeria and across Africa, high-profile individuals frequently encounter paternity claims, many of which play out in the court of public opinion before facts are established.

Davido’s case highlights the importance of evidence-based conclusions rather than assumptions driven by online narratives.

While the singer did not indicate whether legal action would be taken against false claims, sources suggest the family is focused on protecting its name and ensuring clarity moving forward.

For Davido, the matter underscores the importance of boundaries between public life and private family affairs.

As one of Africa’s most recognizable entertainers, his personal experiences often become headline news, regardless of their private nature.

Despite the controversy, Davido continues to enjoy massive success globally. His music has topped international charts, sold out arenas worldwide and positioned Afrobeats firmly on the global stage.

Industry insiders say the singer remains focused on his music, philanthropy and family responsibilities.

With his latest clarification, Davido appears determined to move past the allegations and redirect attention toward his career and positive impact.

For now, the DNA controversy seems to have reached a conclusion — one reinforced not only by medical results, but by the firm stance of a family that, in Davido’s words, does not compromise when it comes to blood.